RealGM Basketball Wiretaphttps://basketball.realgm.com/news
Basketball News, Rumors, Scores, Stats, Analysis, Depth Charts, Forumsen-usMon, 19 Mar 2018 21:17:02 EDTMon, 19 Mar 2018 21:17:02 EDTTyronn Lue Takes Medical Leave Of Absencehttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249286/Tyronn-Lue-Takes-Medical-Leave-Of-Absence
<p>Tyronn Lue is taking a leave of absence as head coach of the Cavaliers to address his ongoing health issues. Larry Drew will serve as interim head coach in Lue's absence.</p>
<p>"After many conversations with our doctors and Koby and much thought given to what is best for the team and my health, I need to step back from coaching for the time being and focus on trying to establish a stronger and healthier foundation from which to coach for the rest of the season," said Lue in a statement.</p>
<p>"I have had chest pains and other troubling symptoms, compounded by a loss of sleep, throughout the year. Despite a battery of tests, there have been no conclusions as to what the exact issue is. </p>
<p>"While I have tried to work through it, the last thing I want is for it to affect the team. I am going to use this time to focus on a prescribed routine and medication, which has previously been difficult to start in the midst of a season. My goal is to come out of it a stronger and healthier version of myself so I can continue to lead this team to the Championship we are all working towards.</p>
<p>"I greatly appreciate Dan Gilbert, Koby Altman, our medical team and the organization's support throughout."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/22833775/cleveland-cavaliers-coach-ty-lue-steps-back-focus-health">Sources tell Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN</a> that Lue hopes to return well before the start of the playoffs.</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 11:08:15 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249286/Tyronn-Lue-Takes-Medical-Leave-Of-AbsenceNicolas Batum Out Several Games With Achilles Tendinitishttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249284/Nicolas-Batum-Out-Several-Games-With-Achilles-Tendinitis
<p>Nicolas Batum has been diagnosed with <span>chronic tendinitis in his left Achilles and could miss multiple games.</span></p>
<p><span>Batum underwent an MRI on Sunday.</span></p>
<p><span>The Hornets are seven games out of the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with only 12 games remaining in the regular season.</span></p>
<p><span>Batum's 17-18 season has been slowed by injuries beginning with an elbow injury suffered in training camp.</span></p>
<p><span>Batum is in the second season of a five-year, $120 million deal with the Hornets.</span></p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 10:06:09 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249284/Nicolas-Batum-Out-Several-Games-With-Achilles-TendinitisLeBron James, Russell Westbrook Named Players Of The Weekhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249288/LeBron-James-Russell-Westbrook-Named-Players-Of-The-Week
<p>LeBron James has been named the Eastern Conference Player of the Week for Week 22 (games played Monday, March 12, through Sunday, March 18), while Russell Westbrook won Western Conference honors.</p>
<p>This marks the third time James has won the award in 2017-18, increasing his total to an NBA-record 60 Player of the Week awards.</p>
<p>In three games this past week, James led the Cavaliers to a 2-1 record after averaging a NBA-best 32.0 points on .569 shooting from the field, 13.3 rebounds, 9.7 assists, 2.0 steals and 2.3 blocks in 38.0 minutes. He recorded three double-doubles, which includes two triple-double performances during the week. Among Eastern Conference leaders, the 6-8 forward led the conference in points per game (32.0) and field goals made (37), while tying for first in double-doubles (3) and triple-doubles (2). In addition, he ranked second in assists per game (9.7), tied for second in blocks per game (2.33), third in rebounds per game (13.3), tied for fifth in steals per game (2.0) and 15th in field goal percentage (.569). James, who tallied at least 25 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in all three contests, was the only player in the NBA to average at least 30.0 points and 10.0 rebounds.</p>
<p>Westbrook averaged 25.5 points, 12.0 assists and 11.3 rebounds as the Thunder went 4-0.</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 15:35:22 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249288/LeBron-James-Russell-Westbrook-Named-Players-Of-The-WeekGregg Popovich: It's Been A Frustrating Seasonhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249296/Gregg-Popovich-Its-Been-A-Frustrating-Season
<p>The San Antonio Spurs have used 24 starting lineups this season as they have accrued 185 total games missed due to injury. Kawhi Leonard alone has missed 61 games.</p>
<p>"It's been a frustrating season," Gregg Popovich said. "But the challenges have pulled a lot of people closer. You have to do different things to try to stay afloat. It's been rewarding, as counterintuitive as that sounds."</p>
<p>"You've got to think: You can find the silver lining in anything," Danny Green said. "These young guys have gotten a great opportunity to show what they can do, and I think this will be great for them moving forward for their careers and for us as a team also to build some character, some depth, some trust and experience with these younger guys.</p>
<p>"We're hoping when it all comes together that this will be good for us."</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 18:28:02 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249296/Gregg-Popovich-Its-Been-A-Frustrating-SeasonLeBron James Spends Over $1M Per Year Caring For Bodyhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249291/LeBron-James-Spends-Over-$1M-Per-Year-Caring-For-Body
<p>LeBron James is believed to spend over $1 million per year caring for his body.</p>
<p>James privately employs Donnie Raimon as his personal biomechanist. Raimon helped James overcome back issues he began to experience in 2015. </p>
<p>James also has worked with Mike Mancias since 2004. Mancias is employed by the Cavaliers.</p>
<p><span>"Between Donnie and Mike, it's a great one-two punch," James said.</span></p>
<p><span><span>"LeBron is probably one of the best I've seen as far as just, every day you see him just doing stuff with Donnie every day," Tyronn Lue said. "He does a really good job of taking care of his body, and that's why he's able to play the way that he does."</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>James also employs personal chefs and masseuses while he also gets private treatments with liquid nitrogen to help reduce inflammation. The home facilities James has rival those of professional teams. In his Akron home, James has a complete workout gym, hot and cold tubs and a hyperbaric chamber.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>"I just think over time you kind of learn how to grow with it and how to deal with it when certain situations happen," James said. "It's very challenging, and you just have to go through it, and there was never someone I could talk to when I was coming up that was a part of this league that I could kind of lean on. I've learned everything on the fly. And I'm not talking about the game. Obviously, I've had coaches, I've had teammates and things of that nature. But as far as being an NBA player, how to approach it, how your body and how you continue to stay consistent, I've learned all of that on my own."</span></span></span></p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 16:43:51 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249291/LeBron-James-Spends-Over-$1M-Per-Year-Caring-For-BodyJalen McDaniels Declares For NBA Drafthttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249294/Jalen-McDaniels-Declares-For-NBA-Draft
<p>Jalen McDaniels will declare for the 2018 NBA Draft. McDaniels won't hire an agent at this time.</p>
<p>McDaniels is a 6-10 redshirt freshman out of San Diego State.</p>
<p>McDaniels averaged 10.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game.</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 18:21:10 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249294/Jalen-McDaniels-Declares-For-NBA-DraftKevin Love Returns From Broken Handhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249293/Kevin-Love-Returns-From-Broken-Hand
<p>Kevin Love will return from his broken hand in Monday's game.</p>
<p>Love missed the past 21 games.</p>
<p>Love was named to the All-Star Game this season.</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 17:45:17 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249293/Kevin-Love-Returns-From-Broken-HandFrank Jackson Out For Season After Foot Procedurehttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249295/Frank-Jackson-Out-For-Season-After-Foot-Procedure
<p>Frank Jackson underwent successful scar tissue removal, debridement and injection to his right foot.</p>
<p>The surgery was performed by Dr. Martin O'Malley in New York following consultation with Pelicans Director of Medical Services/Head Team Physician Dr. Misty Suri.</p>
<p>Jackson will miss the remainder of the 2017-18 season and a timetable for his return will be determined at a later date.</p>
<p>Jackson was the 31st overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft.</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 18:24:04 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249295/Frank-Jackson-Out-For-Season-After-Foot-ProcedureNew Tax Law Could Disrupt Trades In Sportshttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249292/New-Tax-Law-Could-Disrupt-Trades-In-Sports
<p>The NBA sent teams an email this month detailing the disruption of their trading system under the United States' new tax law. The NBA is still figuring out how to respond.</p>
<p><span>The new law forces manufacturers, farmers and others to pay more in capital gains taxes, if they trade an asset for something more valuable, and it also applies to sports teams trading player. </span></p>
<p class="story-body-text story-content" data-para-count="359" data-total-count="1948">"There is no fair-market value of a baseball player. There isn't," said Daniel R. Halem, the chief legal officer of Major League Baseball. "I don't really know what our clubs are going to do to address the issue. We haven't fully figured it out yet. This is a change we hope was inadvertent, and we're going to lobby hard to get it corrected."</p>
<p class="story-body-text story-content" data-para-count="359" data-total-count="1948"><span>Officials from the NBA and MLB expressed hope that Congress would revisit the provision.</span></p>
<p class="story-body-text story-content" data-para-count="359" data-total-count="1948"><span><span>For decades, teams have not paid taxes on trades, and thus have not had to account for the value of the assets they are exchanging, for tax purposes. </span></span></p>
<p class="story-body-text story-content" data-para-count="359" data-total-count="1948">The Internal Revenue Service allowed baseball owners to depreciate the cost of player contracts over several years to reduce the team's taxable income. <span>It declared that "trades of player contracts owned by major league baseball clubs will be considered exchanges of like-kind property" under a section of the tax code.</span></p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 16:54:26 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249292/New-Tax-Law-Could-Disrupt-Trades-In-SportsJoe Lacob: We'll Build Around Core Until We Decide Maybe We Shouldn'thttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249289/Joe-Lacob-Well-Build-Around-Core-Until-We-Decide-Maybe-We-Shouldnt
<p><span>Joe Lacob said he discusses contingency plans for endless best- and worst-case scenarios "every day" for the Warriors.</span></p>
<p><span>The Warriors have looked to the Spurs for how to build a sustainable title contender.</span></p>
<p><span><span>"They're a great role model for how to sustain it, but I have no idea where we'll be in five or 10 years," Bob Myers told The Bay Area News Group. "I'm not sure they knew where they would be. But all you can do is work."</span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>"If we want to do what the Spurs have done, we're going to have to find a way to bridge to the next era," Steve Kerr told The Bay Area News Group. "I don't know when that is, but this isn't going to last forever."</span></span></span></p>
<p>As good as Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are now, he realizes that the prime of players is always a fleeting thing.</p>
<p><span>"Steph is not going to play like this forever. KD is not going to be KD forever," Kerr said. "How do we build that bridge through personnel and through continuity? I also have to do a great job with my coaching, so hopefully I'll be a part of that bridge. If I don't do a good job of coaching, I won't be. But I know I have the faith of Joe, Peter (Guber) and Bob, and I have the faith in them. I think we have the structure in place to really remain competitive and stable."</span></p>
<p>"He's proven that it's not about the money or the luxury tax. One thing I know about Joe is he wants to win," Green said. "He wants to win every game. Up to this point, he's proven that. Obviously there's decisions coming up in the next couple of years that have to be made. So we'll see what happens."</p>
<p>Green and Thompson will be free agents in upcoming seasons.</p>
<p>"We'll build around that core until we decide maybe we shouldn't. But right now it feels pretty good," Lacob said. "These guys are all performing at a great level. We love them as part of our organization. I don't really see doing anything major. But you never really know. We have to evaluate when the season is over. It's very hard when you're in the middle of it all to see it objectively."</p>
<p><span>Lacob floated the possibility of the Warriors make a major move that shakes up their roster.</span></p>
<p><span><span>"Maybe we will emphasize continuity. Or maybe we will make a big move," Lacob said. "We're looking at different options, given different things playing out in different ways. I think you should always be doing that."</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>There have been reports in the media that the Warriors have internally discussed the possibility of trading for Anthony Davis.</span></span></p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 16:13:02 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249289/Joe-Lacob-Well-Build-Around-Core-Until-We-Decide-Maybe-We-ShouldntPenny Hardaway Hired As Head Coach At University Of Memphishttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249287/Penny-Hardaway-Hired-As-Head-Coach-At-University-Of-Memphis
<p>Penny Hardaway has agreed to become head coach of the Memphis Tigers.</p>
<p>Hardaway attended Memphis before he was the third overall pick in the 1993 draft.</p>
<p>Hardaway has coached AAU and won his third straight state title as head coach of Memphis East High.</p>
<p>Hardaway retired from his playing career in 2008.</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 12:18:58 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249287/Penny-Hardaway-Hired-As-Head-Coach-At-University-Of-MemphisNBA PER: Russell Westbrook Moves Up To No. 8https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249285/NBA-PER-Russell-Westbrook-Moves-Up-To-No-8
<p>Russell Westbrook has moved to No. 8 in the NBA in PER after a slow start to the season. Westbrook had a PER of 22.6 in October, 20.7 in November, but 27.5 in December, 28.0 in January, 20.1 in February and 28.5 in March.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>NBA PER (Week 22)</strong></span><br />1. James Harden: 30.5<br />2. Anthony Davis: 28.6<br />3. LeBron James: 28.1<br />4. Giannis Antetokounmpo: 27.8<br />5. Stephen Curry: 27.5<br />6. Kevin Durant: 25.9<br />7. Kyrie Irving: 25.0<br />8. Russell Westbrook: 24.9<br />9. Karl-Anthony Towns: 24.9<br />10. Damian Lillard: 24.9<br />11. Clint Capela: 24.7<br />12. Chris Paul: 24.6<br />13. Enes Kanter: 24.3<br />14. Hassan Whiteside: 24.0<br />15. Nikola Jokic: 24.0<br />16. LaMarcus Aldridge: 23.9<br />17. Jimmy Butler: 23.7<br />18. Andre Drummond: 23.4<br />19. Joel Embiid: 23.1<br />20. DeMarcus Cousins: 23.0<br />21. Kevin Love: 22.9<br />22. Victor Oladipo: 22.5<br />23. Jonas Valanciunas: 22.0<br />24. DeMar DeRozan: 21.7<br />25. Tyreke Evans: 21.4</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 10:20:43 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249285/NBA-PER-Russell-Westbrook-Moves-Up-To-No-8Dunc'd On: 15 in 60 (Western Conference 3.19.18)https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249283/Duncd-On-15-in-60-Western-Conference-31918
<p><iframe src="https://percolate.blogtalkradio.com/offsiteplayer?hostId=890713&episodeId=10670315" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="180px"></iframe></p>
<p>Click to subscribe via <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/duncdon/podcast" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/duncdon/podcast">RSS feed</a> or i<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/duncd-on-basketball-podcast/id986901174?mt=2" data-cke-saved-href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/duncd-on-basketball-podcast/id986901174?mt=2">Tunes</a>.</p>
<p>A look at the 15 teams in the Western Conference generally in order of the standings, starting with the Houston Rockets.</p>
<p>With host Nate Duncan (<a href="http://twitter.com/nateduncannba" data-cke-saved-href="http://twitter.com/nateduncannba">@NateDuncanNBA</a>). And if you like this pod, please <a href="http://patreon.com/duncanleroux" data-cke-saved-href="http://patreon.com/duncanleroux">donate to support</a> Nate and Danny at <a href="http://patreon.com/DuncanLeroux" data-cke-saved-href="http://patreon.com/DuncanLeroux">Patreon.com/DuncanLeroux</a>. Merchandise available at <a href="http://nateduncannba.com/other-news/duncd-t-shirts-mugs-now-available/" data-cke-saved-href="http://nateduncannba.com/other-news/duncd-t-shirts-mugs-now-available/">NateDuncanNBA.com</a>.</p>Mon, 19 Mar 2018 04:30:35 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249283/Duncd-On-15-in-60-Western-Conference-31918Jimmy Butler Hopeful Of Returning From Knee Injury During Regular Seasonhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249282/Jimmy-Butler-Hopeful-Of-Returning-From-Knee-Injury-During-Regular-Season
<p>Jimmy Butler could return from his knee injury before the end of the regular season.</p>
<p>Butler spoke to reporters for the first time since suffering a meniscus injury on Feb. 23.</p>
<p>Butler <span>confirmed an initial recovery estimate of four to six weeks.</span></p>
<p><span>Butler told reporters he's confident he will heal in time to return for the regular season and playoffs.</span></p>Sun, 18 Mar 2018 20:36:17 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249282/Jimmy-Butler-Hopeful-Of-Returning-From-Knee-Injury-During-Regular-SeasonStan Van Gundy Fined $15,000 For Criticism Of Refshttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249281/Stan-Van-Gundy-Fined-$15000-For-Criticism-Of-Refs
<p>Stan Van Gundy has been fined $15,000 for public criticism of the officiating, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.</p>
<p>Van Gundy made his comments to the media following the Pistons' 100-87 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on March 17 at Moda Center.</p>
<p><span>"It's embarrassing. It's embarrassing for them and embarrassing for the league," Van Gundy said of Saturday's officiating. "I've been here for four years and many more years before that, and I've never come in after a game -- never, never come in after a game -- and talked like this. That was embarrassing. We got absolutely screwed tonight."</span></p>Sun, 18 Mar 2018 20:32:17 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249281/Stan-Van-Gundy-Fined-$15000-For-Criticism-Of-RefsAlvin Gentry Fined $15,000 By NBA For Comments Of Officiatinghttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249280/Alvin-Gentry-Fined-$15000-By-NBA-For-Comments-Of-Officiating
<p>Alvin Gentry has been fined $15,000 for public criticism of the officiating.</p>
<p>Gentry made his comments to the media following the Pelicans' 107-101 loss to the Houston Rockets on March 17 at Smoothie King Center.</p>
<p>"The thing that bothers me more than anything, and I really don't care, we try to play the right way, and we play our asses off," Gentry said after the game.</p>
<p>"All we want is an equal opportunity to win the game, not have a situation where we are guessing on the biggest play of the game, where they call a 3-point foul from the corner. All of you take a look at the play, and if you think that's a foul, if anybody out here thinks it's a foul, then you tell me, and I'll shut up, and I won't say one more thing. You take a look at the play and tell me what you think when a guy comes up and winks and says, 'I got him.'"</p>Sun, 18 Mar 2018 20:30:36 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249280/Alvin-Gentry-Fined-$15000-By-NBA-For-Comments-Of-OfficiatingMagic Sign Rodney Purvis To 2nd 10-Day Contracthttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249277/Magic-Sign-Rodney-Purvis-To-2nd-10-Day-Contract
<p>The Orlando Magic have signed guard Rodney Purvis to a second 10-day contract.</p>
<p>Purvis has played in five games with Orlando, averaging 3.8 ppg. in 11.5 minpg. He appeared and started in 37 games this season for the Lakeland Magic, Orlando's NBA G League affiliate, averaging 20.5 ppg., 4.0 rpg., 3.5 apg. and 1.35 stlpg. in 38.5 minpg. Purvis led the team in scoring 17 times and in assists 10 times. He scored in double figures 34 times and had 30+ points four times, including a season-high 40 points on Dec. 21 @ Westchester.</p>
<p>Purvis was selected to participate in the USA World Cup Qualifying Team training camp Feb. 15-20 and the G League International Challenge on Feb 18.</p>Sun, 18 Mar 2018 14:03:44 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249277/Magic-Sign-Rodney-Purvis-To-2nd-10-Day-ContractBlazers Sign Georgios Papagiannis For Remainder Of Seasonhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249276/Blazers-Sign-Georgios-Papagiannis-For-Remainder-Of-Season
<p>The Portland Trail Blazers have signed center Georgios Papagiannis to a contract through the 2018-19 season.</p>
<p>Originally signed to a 10-day contract on March 8, Papagiannis holds career averages of 4.2 points (51.0% FG, 85.7% FT), 3.2 rebounds, 0.8 assists and 12.4 minutes in 38 games over two seasons with the Sacramento Kings.</p>
<p>Selected by Phoenix with the 13th overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft out of Greece, Papagiannis, 20, was dealt to Sacramento in a draft day trade.</p>Sun, 18 Mar 2018 14:02:23 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249276/Blazers-Sign-Georgios-Papagiannis-For-Remainder-Of-SeasonRudy Gobert Glad Jazz Didn't Try To Tankhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249275/Rudy-Gobert-Glad-Jazz-Didnt-Try-To-Tank
<p>Rudy Gobert is relieved the Utah Jazz didn't choose to rebuild following the departure of Gordon Hayward in free agency.</p>
<p><span>"We're past that point," Gobert told USA TODAY Sports recently about how they recovered from the loss of Hayward last summer. "It doesn't matter who's with me, or who's not with me. I'm just trying to win. I'm not worried about that."</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The Jazz have been buoyed by Donovan Mitchell, who the Jazz traded up to select in last year's draft.</p>
<p><span>"Just try to teach players how to make winning plays, not only good basketball plays but winning plays," Gobert said in explaining coach Quin Snyder's system. "Teach every single one to help the team win games. A lot of teams are very good doing skill work, strength work. But if you want to win, you have to teach a player how to win. That's why I don't believe in tanking, all that stuff. I believe you learn how to win by winning. You don't learn how to win by losing on purpose to get a 19-year-old who you've never seen."</span></p>Sun, 18 Mar 2018 14:00:42 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249275/Rudy-Gobert-Glad-Jazz-Didnt-Try-To-TankStan Van Gundy: Referees Embarrassing For NBAhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249274/Stan-Van-Gundy-Referees-Embarrassing-For-NBA
<p>Stan Van Gundy was sharply critical of the officiating following Detroit's loss to the Blazers on Saturday.</p>
<p><span>"It's embarrassing. It's embarrassing for them and embarrassing for the league," Van Gundy said of Saturday's officiating.</span></p>
<p><span><span>"I've been here for four years and many more years before that, and I've never come in after a game -- never, never come in after a game -- and talked like this. That was embarrassing," he said. "We got absolutely screwed tonight."</span></span></p>
<p>While Van Gundy credited Portland for how well they played, he still noted that he thought the refs made a big difference in his team's loss.</p>
<p>"A big part of [the Blazers'] defense -- they play very hard, I don't mean to take anything away from them -- but when you can get away with playing like that and get screwed that badly by the officials, your defense is going to be pretty good," Van Gundy said.</p>Sun, 18 Mar 2018 13:18:18 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249274/Stan-Van-Gundy-Referees-Embarrassing-For-NBACavaliers Sign Okaro White To 10-Day Contracthttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249273/Cavaliers-Sign-Okaro-White-To-10-Day-Contract
<p>The Cleveland Cavaliers have agreed to sign Okaro White to a 10-day contract.</p>
<p>White appeared in six games this season with the Heat and 35 during the 16-17 season.</p>Sun, 18 Mar 2018 12:58:05 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249273/Cavaliers-Sign-Okaro-White-To-10-Day-ContractMichele Roberts To Seek Extension As NBPA Executive Directorhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249272/Michele-Roberts-To-Seek-Extension-As-NBPA-Executive-Director
<p>Michele Roberts will seek a new contract as executive director of the National Basketball Players Association.</p>
<p>Roberts' original four-year deal expires in September.</p>
<p>Roberts had recently considered staying in the executive director role for only the lifetime of her original contract but she has since decided to extend her stay.</p>
<p>Chris Paul played a significant part in Roberts' hiring in July 2014 and he has built a strong working relationship with Roberts.</p>
<p>The NBA's collective bargaining agreement is signed through 2024.</p>Sat, 17 Mar 2018 17:08:57 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249272/Michele-Roberts-To-Seek-Extension-As-NBPA-Executive-DirectorNigel Hayes Agrees To 2nd 10-Day Contract With Raptorshttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249271/Nigel-Hayes-Agrees-To-2nd-10-Day-Contract-With-Raptors
<p>The Toronto Raptors announced Friday they have signed forward Nigel Hayes to a second 10-day contract.</p>
<p>Hayes, 6-foot-8, 254 pounds, has appeared in two games for Toronto, scoring six points (2-2 FG, 2-2 3PT) in six minutes of action. Prior to joining the Raptors, Hayes split the season between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Westchester Knicks of the NBA G League.</p>
<p>Hayes signed a 10-day contract with the Lakers on Jan. 19, recording three points and two assists in 11 minutes in two games. He averaged 16.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 35.6 minutes in 38 games with the Knicks. Hayes shot .450 (227-for-505) from the field, .441 (94-for-213) from three-point range and .744 (64-for-86) at the free throw line. He scored 20-or-more points 10 times, including a season-high 37 points Nov. 7 at Delaware.</p>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 22:49:55 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249271/Nigel-Hayes-Agrees-To-2nd-10-Day-Contract-With-RaptorsKevin Durant Out Two Weeks With Rib Injuryhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249270/Kevin-Durant-Out-Two-Weeks-With-Rib-Injury
<p>Kevin Durant will be out at least two weeks after an MRI revealed an incomplete rib-cartilage fracture.</p>
<p>The Warriors will also be without Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, leaving Draymond Green as the only remaining All-Star available.</p>
<p><span>"It's just irritating because you just want to hoop," Durant said. "As far as playoffs and all that stuff, I don't think anybody is thinking that far down the line. Just taking it day by day."</span></p>
<p><span>Durant suffered the injury in last Sunday's loss to the Wolves.</span></p>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 22:46:54 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249270/Kevin-Durant-Out-Two-Weeks-With-Rib-InjuryDavid Stockton Signs 10-Day Contract With Jazzhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249269/David-Stockton-Signs-10-Day-Contract-With-Jazz
<p>David Stockton has agreed to a 10-day contract with the Utah Jazz.</p>
<p>Stockton had been playing with the Reno Big Horns of the G League, averaging 16.3 points and 5.2 assists per game.</p>
<p>Stockton briefly played in the NBA in 2015 with the Kings.</p>
<p><span>One of Utah's scouts, David Fredman, has been recommending a Stockton call-up to GM Dennis Lindsey and coach Quin Snyder</span></p>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 22:44:08 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249269/David-Stockton-Signs-10-Day-Contract-With-JazzMarcus Smart To Undergo Surgery On Right Thumbhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249267/Marcus-Smart-To-Undergo-Surgery-On-Right-Thumb
<p>Marcus Smart will undergo surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb.</p>
<p>The Celtics hope Smart could return within six weeks and participate in the playoffs.</p>
<p><span>Smart suffered what the team initially termed a sprained right thumb while diving to the floor during the first half of a loss to the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. He had the thumb taped and finished the game, after which he downplayed the severity of the injury.</span></p>
<p><span>Smart <span>missed 11 games after punching a glass picture frame in Los Angeles in January</span></span></p>
<p>Smart will be a restricted free agent this offseason.</p>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 13:02:47 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249267/Marcus-Smart-To-Undergo-Surgery-On-Right-ThumbDeandre Ayton Declares For 2018 NBA Drafthttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249266/Deandre-Ayton-Declares-For-2018-NBA-Draft
<p>Deandre Ayton announced he will leave Arizona for the 2018 NBA Draft.</p>
<p>"I learned a lot and built relationships on this team," Ayton said. "This is the only team that I actually loved. Being a Wildcat is amazing.</p>
<p>"I think it's the right thing to do, right now. I think I'm ready for the NBA. ... I just have to finish off school right and just work this summer and play for the draft."</p>
<p>Ayton is projected to be the first or second pick in the draft.</p>
<p><span>Ayton said he made his decision to turn pro with his family during the summer after his senior year of high school. </span></p>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 11:03:53 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249266/Deandre-Ayton-Declares-For-2018-NBA-DraftDunc'd On: Marc Stein On GM Openings, Hinkie, Next Star To Move, Tanking Eighthttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249265/Duncd-On-Marc-Stein-On-GM-Openings-Hinkie-Next-Star-To-Move-Tanking-Eight
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<p>Marc Stein of the New York Times discusses how Derrick Rose ended up in Minnesota, the disappointing buyout market, the future in Charlotte and Rich Cho's replacement, what's next for Sam Hinkie, "active" owners, the potential for Giannis and AD to leave their small markets eventually, and whether the Tanking Eight will change anything the league is doing going forward.</p>
<p>With host Nate Duncan (<a href="http://twitter.com/nateduncannba" data-cke-saved-href="http://twitter.com/nateduncannba">@NateDuncanNBA</a>). And if you like this pod, please <a href="http://patreon.com/duncanleroux" data-cke-saved-href="http://patreon.com/duncanleroux">donate to support</a> Nate and Danny at <a href="http://patreon.com/DuncanLeroux" data-cke-saved-href="http://patreon.com/DuncanLeroux">Patreon.com/DuncanLeroux</a>. Merchandise available at <a href="http://nateduncannba.com/other-news/duncd-t-shirts-mugs-now-available/" data-cke-saved-href="http://nateduncannba.com/other-news/duncd-t-shirts-mugs-now-available/">NateDuncanNBA.com</a>.</p>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 00:03:09 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249265/Duncd-On-Marc-Stein-On-GM-Openings-Hinkie-Next-Star-To-Move-Tanking-EightGordon Hayward Suffered Setback In Recoveryhttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249264/Gordon-Hayward-Suffered-Setback-In-Recovery
<p>Danny Ainge revealed Gordon Hayward suffered a minor setback in his recovery from a fractured ankle but is now back on track.</p>
<p>"[Hayward] had like one setback for a couple of weeks, maybe a month and a half ago. We were progressing a little bit too fast, we thought," Ainge said. "But, other than that, his work ethic and his determination have been amazing.</p>
<p><span>"I don't want to get people's hopes up. He still is not back on the basketball court and we have a month left in the regular season. He's got a ways to go but we're excited about his progress and his determination."</span></p>
<p><span>Hayward's setback may have been why Brad Stevens recently made an emphatic declaration that he would not return this season.</span></p>
<p><span>Hayward has tried to leave open the possibility of playing this season.</span></p>
<p>"The hope [of a return] is still there. It's something where I'm really honestly not even thinking about it," Hayward said during an appearance at a community event on Monday in Boston. "I know we're getting toward the end of the year, it's something that I'm still working toward, but if it doesn't happen it doesn't happen.</p>
<p>"My thoughts are that I take it day by day. And I said that from the very beginning, that's what I would do, not putting a timetable on it. The recovery is going well, I'm progressing well."</p>Thu, 15 Mar 2018 17:58:21 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249264/Gordon-Hayward-Suffered-Setback-In-RecoveryTom Benson Passes Away At Age 90https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249263/Tom-Benson-Passes-Away-At-Age-90
<p>Tom Benson has passed away at the age of 90.</p>
<p>Benson was one of only three owners of both an NFL and NBA franchise at the time of his death.</p>
<p>Benson was widely credited with keeping both the Pelicans and Saints in New Orleans.</p>
<p><span>Benson had been hospitalized since Feb. 16 in New Orleans with flu-like symptoms.</span></p>Thu, 15 Mar 2018 17:50:03 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/249263/Tom-Benson-Passes-Away-At-Age-90Get Your Latest NBA News From RealGM's Basketball Wiretaphttps://basketball.realgm.com/news
Get all the latest news and happenings from around the NBA with RealGM's Basketball Wiretap.Mon, 19 Mar 2018 21:17:02 EDThttps://basketball.realgm.com/news